FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DENVER, Colo. — The Special District Association of Colorado (SDA) today thanked Governor Jared Polis for his thoughtful review and veto of Senate Bill 26-184. The bill would have undermined the Colorado Firefighter Cancer Trust and shifted firefighter occupational cancer claims into a more costly and complex workers' compensation framework.

Since its creation in 2017, the Colorado Firefighter Cancer Trust has provided dedicated, streamlined support for firefighters diagnosed with occupational cancers. Under the Trust model, firefighters diagnosed with covered cancers can receive benefits within days, allowing them to focus on treatment and recovery rather than navigating lengthy claims processes. The Trust has also continuously evolved to address emerging needs, including expanding coverage to additional cancers through actions taken by its governing board.

“Governor Polis recognized the value of a program that is already working for Colorado firefighters and the communities they serve,” said Ann Terry, CEO of the Special District Association of Colorado. “The Firefighter Cancer Trust provides timely support to firefighters while ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources. We appreciate the Governor’s decision to preserve this successful model.”

While all parties share the goal of supporting firefighters diagnosed with occupational cancers, Senate Bill 26-184 would have created significant inequities and uncertainties. Among the bill’s shortcomings was its failure to provide coverage for state-employed firefighters, despite their facing the same occupational risks and cancer exposures as firefighters across Colorado.

SDA remains committed to working with firefighter organizations, state leaders, and stakeholders to strengthen cancer benefits and ensure that those who dedicate their lives to protecting Colorado communities receive the support they deserve. The association supports continued collaboration to identify solutions that enhance firefighter protections and ensure that those who dedicate their lives to protecting Colorado communities receive the support they deserve.

About the Special District Association of Colorado

The Special District Association of Colorado represents more than 2,800 special districts across the state, providing advocacy, education, and resources to help local governments effectively serve their communities.